How long can a dog be on a flight? Expert Advice

Can I fly with a dog on a plane?

Can my dog fly with me? Yes, in many cases, your dog can fly with you on a plane, either in the cabin or the cargo hold. However, as you might imagine, airlines have tons of specific guidelines for travelers with pets to read up on. It’s important that you read them all thoroughly, well in advance of your trip, so you know exactly what to expect and can prepare for how to fly with a dog ahead of time.

Check with the airline to see which dog breeds they allow on planes. Breeds with short or snubbed noses, also known as brachycephalic dogs, are typically banned from the cargo hold because their facial structure can make it difficult for them to breathe normally. Airlines may also completely prohibit some bully breeds, like pit bulls, from flying.

Most airlines only allow a few dogs per flight—typically two to six, depending on the type of plane—so call and make sure the plane has space for you and your dog before you book. (For this reason, always be sure to make reservations for you and your pet at the same time.) Airlines may also limit which areas of the plane you can sit in if you’re bringing your dog onboard (for example, you may not be able to sit in business or first class, and you likely won’t be able to select a seat in the emergency exit or bulkhead rows).

Also keep in mind that airlines will not accept pets on the plane if temperatures are forecasted to be too hot or too cold at any destination along the route. Of course, the weather can be unpredictable, so If this happens, you’ll have to scramble to make other plans.

Plan out food & water breaks

Don’t overfeed your dog before a flight! Make sure you provide enough time for your dog to relieve himself after his meal (but before he goes to the airport terminal for boarding). I usually like to eat my last big meal two hours or so before heading to the airport. That way, I have enough time to digest and relieve myself on a long walk before the flight. Then, I’ll have a few treats, snacks, or light meals throughout the flight. Water breaks are trickier since dogs will only drink when they’re thirsty, but it’s still important to offer your dog several water breaks throughout the long flight. Finding that balance and being strategic with feeding times is crucial in helping your dog prevent accidents.

How stressful is flying for dogs?

Flying is an incredibly stressful experience for all dogs, but it can be especially upsetting for elderly dogs, as well as pups with health or behavioral challenges.

Think about it: Flying removes pets from the surroundings they are most comfortable and familiar with, then forces them into a situation with loud noises, bright lights, thousands of people, a dizzying array of new smells, changes in air pressure and cabin temperature, and limited access to places where they can use the bathroom. Dogs who must fly in the cargo hold are also away from you, their favorite person, in a scary environment.

In addition, consider whether your dog will be able to participate in all the activities you have planned once you arrive. “If the destination is somewhere where the pup will be alone inside all day, boarding or hiring a dog sitter may be better options to consider rather than subjecting the pet to the stress of flying,” says Jennifer Bruns, a veterinarian at PetSmart.

Unless you have a really good reason for bringing your pet, it’s probably best to leave them behind. You might feel bummed out for a few days, but it’s almost certainly better for your pet in the long run. Consider hiring a pet sitter, asking a trusted friend or family member your pet already knows to watch your dog, or boarding them at a licensed facility. Or, if your budget and schedule allow—and your pet tolerates car travel well—consider driving if you really want your pup with you on the trip.

Bottom line: Before you book a trip, think long and hard about whether it’s essential to bring your dog along for the journey. “In general, I recommend not flying with a pet unless absolutely necessary,” says Justine Lee, veterinary expert for Pumpkin Pet Insurance. “Ideally, pets should not fly unless an owner is moving permanently or taking a long trip—two to four weeks minimum.”

And if you do decide to proceed with flying with a dog, consult with your vet about food, water, exercise, and medication ahead of time. Experts are divided on whether travelers with pets should sedate or tranquilize their dogs before a flight (even the American Veterinary Medical Association offers a slightly murky answer to this question), so weigh the pros and cons with an expert who is familiar with you and your animal. Also know that there are health risks involved with sedation, and some airlines prohibit this practice or require a veterinarian’s note.

To minimize your pet’s discomfort, look for non-stop flights with no transfers, and avoid traveling over holiday periods when airlines—and airports—are busier than normal, to help reduce the risk of anything going wrong. If your pet has to fly in cargo, also be mindful of the weather at your destination. For trips to warm-weather destinations, look into early morning or late evening flights when the temperatures won’t be quite so high; conversely, in cooler climates, book flights in the middle of the day, when temps are warmest.

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